Pentagon nominee expected to face tough questioning

Associated Press

WASHINGTON

The nomination of policy wonk Ashton Carter to lead the Defense Department marks the most significant change to President Barack Obama’s beleaguered national-security team in nearly two years. But there is little indication the shake-up portends a broader shift in administration policy — nor is it clear that Carter can break into the president’s tight inner circle.

Obama announced Carter’s nomination at the White House on Friday, praising the Pentagon veteran as an innovator and reformer who can step back quickly into an administration grappling with security challenges in the Mideast, Eastern Europe and elsewhere.

The nomination of Carter, a physicist who has served two Democratic presidents at the Pentagon, was welcomed by some Republicans as well as Democrats, and he is expected to be easily confirmed by the new GOP-controlled Senate. Still, Republicans are eager to use his hearings as a new chance to challenge Obama.

“Ashton Carter has the knowledge and capability to serve as secretary of defense during these difficult times,” said Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. “I expect he will face tough questions at his confirmation hearing about President Obama’s failing national security policy, but I expect he will be confirmed.”